Pictures: Massive Protest in Istanbul Against Israeli Genocide in Gaza
Istanbul (Quds News Network)- Tens of thousands of Turkish citizens gathered in Istanbul on January 1, 2024, to protest against Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza. The rally, organized by more than 300 civil society organizations, called for an immediate end to the genocide, which has devastated Gaza for over 15 months.
On the first day of the new year 2025, tens of thousands of protesters overwhelmed the Galata Bridge in Istanbul, Turkey, showing solidarity with the Palestinian people and the Gaza Strip amidst the ongoing Israeli genocide. pic.twitter.com/NQYY9XnXq5
— Quds News Network (@QudsNen) January 1, 2025
Protesters assembled early in the morning, starting their march from iconic mosques like Hagia Sophia, Sultan Ahmed, and Suleymaniye. They converged on Galata Bridge, chanting slogans and waving Palestinian and Turkish flags. Organizers said they chose the first day of the year to deliver a strong message of solidarity and to awaken global conscience.
Speakers at the event condemned Israel’s crimes, stressing that it has been committing genocide. Ibrahim Besinci, a prominent activist, described the ongoing violence as “extermination in front of the world.” He urged humanity to stand against oppression, emphasizing that Palestine is not just a regional issue but a global concern.
Bilal Erdoğan, the son of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, addressed the crowd, urging support for Gaza and condemning Israel’s actions there. He referred to the recent ouster of Syrian President Bashar Assad by rebel forces.
“Muslims in Syria were determined, patient and they achieved victory. After Syria, Gaza will emerge victoriously from the siege,” he said.
Today.. January 1, 2025, Türkiye, Istanbul pic.twitter.com/4R7T8tNnmf
— Lèmuesie (@lemuesie) January 1, 2025
Since October 7, 2023, Israeli airstrikes and blockades have caused immense destruction in Gaza. Over 154,000 Palestinians have been killed or injured, including thousands of women and children. The International Criminal Court recently issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes.
As the protest unfolded, drone footage captured massive crowds filling the Galata Bridge and surrounding districts. The National Will Platform, a coalition of 308 NGOs, vowed to continue its efforts to support Gaza and demand justice for Palestinians.
Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, a vocal critic of Israel’s actions, praised the demonstrators for their solidarity with Gaza. Activists hope the rally will spark greater international pressure to halt the violence and bring relief to the besieged territory.
